As demand for specialised supportive cancer care continues to grow, Icon Cancer Centre and Bowel Cancer Australia have expanded their partnership with the introduction of five additional Specialist Bowel Care Nurses across the Icon network.
The partnership reflects both organisations’ shared commitment to improving outcomes and experiences for people living with bowel cancer, recognising the unique challenges patients face during diagnosis, treatment and survivorship.
Specialist Bowel Care Nurses are a consistent point of contact, helping bowel cancer patients and their families feel informed, supported and empowered at every stage of care.
Specialist Bowel Care Nurses are now available at the following Icon Cancer Centre sites:
Icon Cancer Centre Wesley (QLD)
Icon Cancer Centre Mackay (QLD)
Icon Cancer Centre Townsville (QLD)
Icon Cancer Centre North Lakes (QLD)
Icon Cancer Centre Adelaide (SA)
Icon Cancer Centre Windsor Gardens (SA)
Icon Cancer Centre Rockingham (WA)
Icon Cancer Centre Midland (WA)
Icon Cancer Centre Revesby (NSW)
Icon Cancer Centre Hobart (TAS)
Meet the latest Specialist Bowel Care Nurses to join Icon Cancer Centre:
Evelyn Passalacqua – Icon Cancer Centre Wesley
Icon Cancer Centre Wesley Specialist Bowel Care Nurse, Evelyn Passalacqua says no two days are ever the same in the role.
“Some days I’m working closely with doctors and coordinating care, while other days I’m speaking with patients all day. What remains consistent is being there when patients need someone to guide and support them,” says Evelyn.
Having worked in oncology for the past four years, Evelyn was drawn to the Specialist Bowel Care Nurse role because it allows her to provide more holistic, person-centred care.
“We develop really special bonds with our patients,” says Evelyn.
“You become part of their journey and can make a meaningful difference during a very difficult period of their lives.”
For Evelyn, some of the most rewarding moments come from the gratitude shown by patients and families.
“I keep cards and letters from patients because they remind me that even small acts of support can have a lasting impact,” she says.
She believes specialist support services should be available to every person diagnosed with bowel cancer, citing the positive impact early intervention can have on treatment outcomes, wellbeing and quality of life.
Leah Schukow – Icon Cancer Centre North Lakes
At Icon Cancer Centre North Lakes, Specialist Bowel Care Nurse Leah Schukow shares a similar passion for helping patients feel informed, supported and never alone.
“Many people feel hesitant or embarrassed talking about bowel symptoms, so being someone they can trust is incredibly important,” says Leah.
“The most rewarding part of my job is seeing how much a conversation can ease someone’s fear. Sometimes simply taking the time to listen and explain things clearly can make a huge difference.”
One patient experience remains especially memorable for Leah. Through regular check-ins and ongoing support, she watched a woman who was initially overwhelmed by her diagnosis grow in confidence and regain control throughout her treatment journey.
“Being able to help someone reach important milestones and continue making memories with their family is incredibly meaningful,” says Leah.
Leah is also passionate about raising awareness of bowel cancer, particularly among younger Australians.
“One of the biggest misconceptions is that bowel cancer only affects older people,” says Leah.
“We’re seeing increasing numbers of younger people diagnosed, which is why awareness of symptoms and early detection are so important.”
Mel Webb – Icon Cancer Centre Midland
At Icon Cancer Centre Midland, Specialist Bowel Care Nurse Mel Webb brings decades of experience supporting patients with colorectal conditions and bowel cancer.
For Mel, the role centres on building relationships and ensuring patients always have someone they can turn to for guidance.
“I aim to be a friendly, approachable face and a reassuring point of contact throughout treatment,” says Mel.
Whether coordinating referrals, connecting patients with support services or helping them navigate complex treatment plans, Mel believes continuity of care plays a critical role in improving the patient experience.
“The most rewarding part of my job is knowing I’ve helped make a diagnosis feel a little less overwhelming.”
Mel has witnessed firsthand the resilience of patients facing bowel cancer and is continually inspired by their ability to find joy and meaning despite significant challenges.
“One of the most memorable patients I’ve supported is a woman who first presented as an emergency with an obstructing bowel cancer,” says Mel.
“This patient has been under my care for four years. Despite everything she has faced, she continues to meet each challenge with remarkable resilience and a genuine smile. She is always happy to see me, and I feel the same toward her. Over these years she has welcomed three beautiful grandchildren and seeing her hold onto these moments of joy, while navigating such a complex cancer journey has been so moving.
“Supporting her and her family has been a privilege and a powerful reminder of why this work is so meaningful,” adds Mel.
Erika King – Icon Cancer Centre Adelaide
For Icon Cancer Centre Adelaide Specialist Bowel Care Nurse, Erika King the most meaningful part of the role is the opportunity to form lasting connections with patients and their families.
“Being able to support someone through such a vulnerable period in their life is something I never take for granted,” says Erika.
Working closely with patients from diagnosis through treatment and into survivorship, she provides education, practical advice and emotional support while helping coordinate care across multidisciplinary teams.
“At the heart of the role is connection,” says Erika.
“Patients need someone they can trust, someone who can answer questions and help them navigate what can often feel like an overwhelming experience.”
Erika is particularly excited by emerging research in genomic testing and personalised medicine, which she believes will continue to improve outcomes for people diagnosed with bowel cancer.
“The future of bowel cancer care is incredibly promising,” says Erika.
“The ability to tailor treatment more precisely for each individual patient has enormous potential.”
Jamie Linich - Icon Cancer Centre Mackay
Icon Cancer Centre Mackay Specialist Bowel Cancer Nurse, Jamie Linich is focussed on providing compassionate, personalised care for her patients.
Currently undertaking postgraduate studies in Cancer Sciences, Jamie combines clinical expertise with a strong commitment to patient education, advocacy and supportive care.
Working closely with patients and families, Jamie helps individuals navigate complex treatment pathways with confidence and understanding.
“Being diagnosed with bowel cancer can be overwhelming,” says Jamie.
“My role is to ensure patients feel informed, supported and empowered throughout every stage of their treatment journey.”
Jamie is particularly passionate about raising awareness of bowel cancer and promoting the importance of early detection.
“Early diagnosis can make a significant difference to outcomes,” says Jamie.
“I’m committed to helping increase awareness and encouraging people to seek medical advice if they notice any concerning symptoms.”
Alongside clinical practice, Jamie also contributes to nursing education and professional development, supporting the next generation of cancer care professionals.
While each nurse brings unique experiences and perspectives to the role, they share a common goal: ensuring patients feel supported, informed and empowered throughout their treatment journey.
The Specialist Bowel Care Nurses at Icon Cancer Centre are made possible through funding from Bowel Cancer Australia.